Tag Archives: African Americans

Today one of the Art’s very own Iva Williams lead a very thought-provoking conversation on homophobia in the African-American community. Homophobia perpetuates fear that put lives in danger. Some men have a sense of shame and fear of their sexuality. Living in the closet is a reality for many Americans.

As a feminist, I think about the women who are having unprotected sex with men who are living a double life. It is quite frightening to think of any of my sisters, friends, acquaintances having to deal with a man who is living a double life. I feel that it is HIGH time for African-Americans to have an honest conversation about sexuality. Let’s stop making people feel bad for being themselves. Creating a sense of fear/intimidation hurts not only homosexuals but heterosexuals. Women and Men are dying daily because of fear.

I could get really deep but I choose to discuss Roland Martin today. It is common to hear gay jokes/slurs. Most times we just laugh and keep it moving. This past weekend Roland Martin had one of those moments while watching the Super Bowl. He tweeted to his fans the following: “people should “smack the ish” out of any male fans of an underwear ad starring David Beckham.”. Most of us have fallen victim to saying something on twitter or my personal fav FACEBOOKand thinking “Wow, I probably should have not said that or maybe that was too much!“. Roland had such a moment. I am sure he was kidding. I am sure he did not mean any harm. But a JOKE might very well cause him his JOB with CNN.

Wow, I pray that Roland makes an apology and he can get his job back. But brothers and sisters Homosexuals feel pain like anyone else. Let’s use this episode with Roland Martin as a learning opportunity. Let’s work on our issues with HOMOPHOBIA. We have countless men and women living in the closet. Living double lives. Placing others in harm’s way because they are too afraid to embrace their sexuality.

It’s 2012. If you are GAY STAND UP AND BE PROUD. If you are HOMOPHOBIC; you might want to check yourself before you WRECK YOURSELF. THINK ABOUT IT!

Today, as the Black community recognizes the 12th Annual National Black HIV/AIDS Awareness Day, we stand at the crossroads of heightened awareness, education, and potential eradication. To understand the magnitude of being in such a positive position, it is imperative that we examine how far we’ve come and how close we find ourselves to alleviating the stranglehold that HIV/AIDS has held on our communities.

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ART of Conversation ATLANTA, LLC · Raiders of the LOST ART. The Art of Conversation is a new creative way to get people together. At our events, we have discussion based on a variety of topics in an open and relaxed setting.